2029 steam engine

[Anonymous]

I recently purchased the 2029 steam engine and the trucks are marked "made in japan". Does anyone know if these could be original?

[1688torpedo]

Hello acs!    The Trucks on your 2029 are original indeed as they are from the last years of 2029 production from about 1966-69. The 2029 originally came out in 1963 & was made at the Lionel Factory in Hillside,NJ from 1963-65 & after that, in Japan from 1966-69. The American made versions had Black oxide Trucks on the Rear & Red Windings on the Motor Field. The Japanese versions had Green Windings on the Motor Field & the Axle Bushings were very loose & the Japanese used oversize screws for the Front Truck's as well. In short, the version you have is a Lemon & was made at Lionel's lowest point in history which led to their takeover by General Mills in 1970. The Good News here is that if you search E-bay you should be able to find a 2029 Motor assembly(the good earlier version 1963-65) & this should help you out. To have new bushings made for your 2029 would be about the same cost as finding a decent motor with them. Hope this helps. Take Care.

[1688torpedo]

 Hello acs!    There is a place called "Parts & Trains" on ebay & they have a complete 2029 Motor Assembly for $ 55.00 all original & new. Hope this helps you out. Take Care.

[Anonymous]

 

Interesting to note that a 2029 with a 243W tender lettered for Pennsylvania is relatively more expensive these days then other versions lettered "Lionel Lines".  The Japanese trailing truck version came with the tender lettered "Lionel Lines and should be marked "Hagerstown, Maryland" on the underside. 

 

Bruce Webster

[Anonymous]

This 2029 is marked Hagerstown, MD underneath, was this actually manufactured Japan or constructed of Japanese parts?

[Anonymous]

Yes Sir!  Made in Japan....just like Kieth stated.

Bruce Webster